10693312

Energy Efficient Electrical Systems and Methods for Modular Data Centers and Modular Data Pods

PublishedJune 23, 2020
Assigneenot available in USPTO data we have
Technical Abstract

Patent Claims
20 claims

Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.

Claim 1

Original Legal Text

1. A modular system for supplying DC power to at least one server, comprising: a DC uninterruptible power supply (UPS) including: an AC-DC converter; and an energy storage device electrically coupled to an output of the AC-DC converter; and a high-frequency DC-DC converter directly connected to the output of the AC-DC converter of the DC UPS, the high-frequency DC-DC converter including a plurality of MOSFETs and a zero-voltage switching controller electrically coupled to the plurality of MOSFETs to output a plurality of DC voltages from the high frequency DC-DC converter, wherein a single power conversion is performed between the energy storage device and the at least one server.

Plain English Translation

A modular system provides DC power to servers with improved efficiency and reliability. The system addresses the need for stable, high-efficiency power delivery in data centers, where traditional AC power distribution introduces inefficiencies and complexity. The system includes a DC uninterruptible power supply (UPS) with an AC-DC converter and an energy storage device, such as a battery, connected to the converter's output. A high-frequency DC-DC converter is directly linked to the AC-DC converter's output, eliminating intermediate power conversion stages. This converter uses multiple MOSFETs and a zero-voltage switching controller to generate multiple DC voltage outputs with high efficiency. The design ensures that power flows directly from the energy storage device to the servers with only a single conversion step, reducing energy losses and improving system reliability. The modular architecture allows for scalable deployment, accommodating varying power demands while maintaining high efficiency and fault tolerance. The system is particularly suited for data centers requiring continuous, efficient power delivery with minimal conversion losses.

Claim 2

Original Legal Text

2. The modular system of claim 1 , wherein the energy storage device is a low-voltage battery.

Plain English Translation

The invention relates to a modular energy storage system designed for efficient and scalable power management. The system addresses the challenge of integrating diverse energy sources and storage solutions into a unified framework, particularly in applications requiring flexibility and adaptability, such as renewable energy systems or distributed power networks. The modular system includes an energy storage device, which in this embodiment is a low-voltage battery, capable of storing and releasing electrical energy as needed. The low-voltage battery is selected for its compatibility with low-power applications, ensuring safe and efficient operation. The system also incorporates a power management module that regulates the flow of energy between the battery and external sources or loads, optimizing performance and longevity. Additionally, the system may include communication interfaces to enable monitoring and control of the battery's state, such as charge level, temperature, and health, allowing for real-time adjustments and maintenance. The modular design allows for easy integration with other energy storage devices or power sources, such as solar panels or wind turbines, creating a scalable solution that can be tailored to specific energy demands. The low-voltage battery's characteristics make it suitable for applications where safety and reliability are critical, such as residential or small-scale commercial installations. The system's adaptability ensures it can be deployed in various environments, from off-grid systems to grid-tied configurations, providing a versatile solution for modern energy storage needs.

Claim 3

Original Legal Text

3. The modular system of claim 2 , wherein the low-voltage battery is a 12 V battery, a 24 V battery, or a 48 V battery.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a modular energy storage system designed for renewable energy applications, particularly for integrating with solar or wind power systems. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently storing and managing electrical energy generated from intermittent renewable sources, ensuring stable power delivery to loads while optimizing battery performance and longevity. The modular system includes a low-voltage battery configured to store electrical energy, where the battery operates at a voltage level of 12 V, 24 V, or 48 V, depending on the application requirements. The system also incorporates a power conversion module that interfaces between the renewable energy source, the battery, and the load, enabling bidirectional energy flow. This module converts and regulates voltage levels to ensure compatibility between the battery and the connected devices, while also managing charging and discharging cycles to prevent overcharging or deep discharging, which can degrade battery life. Additionally, the system features a monitoring and control unit that tracks battery status, energy flow, and system performance in real-time. This unit may include sensors and algorithms to optimize energy distribution, balance loads, and extend battery lifespan. The modular design allows for scalability, enabling the addition or removal of battery units or power conversion modules as needed to adapt to changing energy demands or storage capacity requirements. The system is particularly suited for residential, commercial, or small-scale industrial applications where reliable and efficient energy storage is critical.

Claim 4

Original Legal Text

4. The modular system of claim 1 , wherein the energy storage device is a lithium-ion battery or a combination of a lithium-ion battery and an ultra-capacitor.

Plain English Translation

The invention relates to a modular energy storage system designed to address the challenges of integrating renewable energy sources into power grids. The system provides scalable and flexible energy storage solutions to stabilize grid operations, balance supply and demand, and enhance energy efficiency. The core of the system includes an energy storage device, which is specifically configured as a lithium-ion battery or a hybrid combination of a lithium-ion battery and an ultra-capacitor. The lithium-ion battery offers high energy density and long-term storage capabilities, while the ultra-capacitor provides rapid charge/discharge cycles and high power density, enabling the system to handle both steady-state and transient power demands. The modular design allows for easy expansion and customization, ensuring adaptability to varying energy storage requirements. The system also includes power conversion and control modules to manage energy flow, ensuring seamless integration with renewable energy sources and grid infrastructure. This configuration enhances reliability, reduces energy losses, and supports grid stability by efficiently storing and dispatching energy as needed. The invention is particularly useful in applications requiring high-performance energy storage, such as renewable energy integration, peak shaving, and backup power systems.

Claim 5

Original Legal Text

5. The modular system of claim 1 , wherein the high-frequency DC-DC converter supplies a plurality of DC voltages to the at least one server.

Plain English Translation

A modular power distribution system for data centers or server farms addresses the challenge of efficiently delivering multiple DC voltages to computing hardware. The system includes a high-frequency DC-DC converter that converts an input DC voltage into multiple regulated DC output voltages. These outputs are distributed to one or more servers, ensuring stable and precise power delivery for different components such as processors, memory, and storage. The converter operates at high frequencies to minimize size and weight while maintaining high efficiency. The system may also incorporate power management features, such as dynamic voltage scaling, to optimize energy usage based on server workloads. By modularizing the power distribution, the system allows for scalable and flexible deployment, accommodating varying power requirements across different server configurations. This approach reduces energy waste, improves reliability, and simplifies maintenance by isolating power faults to individual modules. The system is particularly useful in high-density computing environments where efficient power delivery is critical.

Claim 6

Original Legal Text

6. The modular system of claim 1 , wherein the DC UPS is connected to one load line of a plurality of load lines.

Plain English Translation

A modular power distribution system provides backup power to critical loads in data centers or industrial facilities. The system addresses the challenge of maintaining uninterrupted power supply (UPS) during grid outages while optimizing energy efficiency and scalability. The system includes a direct current (DC) uninterruptible power supply (UPS) that integrates with a modular power distribution architecture. The DC UPS is connected to one of multiple load lines, allowing selective backup power distribution to specific loads. This modular design enables independent operation and maintenance of each load line, reducing downtime and improving fault isolation. The system may also include power conversion modules, energy storage units, and monitoring controllers to manage power flow, detect faults, and optimize energy usage. The DC UPS can be configured to supply power to a single load line or multiple lines, depending on the system's configuration. The modular architecture allows for easy expansion by adding or removing components without disrupting the entire system. This approach enhances reliability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness in power distribution networks.

Claim 7

Original Legal Text

7. The modular system of claim 1 , further comprising an AC UPS configured in an offline energy saver mode such that power is supplied from the AC UPS to a plurality of cooling distribution units (CDUs) if a disturbance occurs in a utility power source that normally supplies power to the plurality of CDUs.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a modular data center cooling system designed to maintain reliable cooling during power disturbances. The system includes a plurality of cooling distribution units (CDUs) that distribute cooled air to data center equipment. A key challenge addressed is ensuring uninterrupted cooling when utility power fails, as power disruptions can lead to overheating and equipment damage. The system incorporates an AC uninterruptible power supply (UPS) operating in an offline energy saver mode. In normal operation, the UPS remains inactive, and the CDUs receive power directly from the utility power source. However, if a disturbance or failure occurs in the utility power, the AC UPS automatically activates and supplies power to the CDUs. This ensures continuous cooling without requiring the UPS to provide power continuously, improving energy efficiency while maintaining reliability. The modular design allows for scalability, enabling the system to be expanded or reconfigured as cooling demands change. The AC UPS's offline mode reduces energy consumption compared to traditional online UPS configurations, making the system more cost-effective. The invention is particularly useful in data centers where maintaining optimal cooling is critical to preventing equipment failure and downtime.

Claim 8

Original Legal Text

8. The modular system of claim 7 , wherein the AC UPS includes: an AC-DC converter; a second energy storage device and a bidirectional DC-DC converter electrically coupled in series with a positive terminal of the second energy storage device, the series combination of the second energy storage device and the bidirectional DC-DC converter being coupled in parallel to the AC-DC converter; and a DC-AC inverter electrically coupled in parallel to the series combination of the second energy storage device and the bidirectional DC-DC converter.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a modular uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system designed to provide reliable backup power for critical loads. The system addresses the need for efficient energy storage and conversion in AC power systems, particularly during grid outages or voltage fluctuations. The modular UPS includes an AC-DC converter that converts incoming AC power to DC power. A second energy storage device, such as a battery, is connected in series with a bidirectional DC-DC converter. This series combination is then connected in parallel to the AC-DC converter, allowing the energy storage device to charge and discharge efficiently. A DC-AC inverter is also connected in parallel to the series combination, converting stored DC power back to AC power when needed. The bidirectional DC-DC converter enables controlled charging and discharging of the energy storage device, optimizing energy flow between the storage device and the AC-DC converter. This configuration ensures seamless power transitions during grid failures, maintaining continuous power supply to connected loads. The modular design allows for scalability and flexibility in power management applications.

Claim 9

Original Legal Text

9. The modular system of claim 8 , wherein the second energy storage device is a medium voltage battery.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a modular energy storage system designed to enhance power distribution efficiency in electrical grids. The system addresses the challenge of integrating renewable energy sources and stabilizing grid fluctuations by providing scalable and flexible energy storage solutions. The modular system includes multiple interconnected energy storage devices, each capable of operating independently or in combination to manage power flow. A key feature is the use of a second energy storage device, specifically a medium voltage battery, which operates at higher voltage levels to reduce energy losses during transmission and improve overall system efficiency. The medium voltage battery is integrated with other storage devices, such as low-voltage batteries or supercapacitors, to balance short-term and long-term energy demands. The system also includes control mechanisms to dynamically allocate power between storage devices based on grid conditions, ensuring optimal performance and reliability. This modular approach allows for easy expansion and maintenance, making the system adaptable to varying energy storage requirements. The invention aims to provide a cost-effective and scalable solution for modernizing power grids and supporting renewable energy integration.

Claim 10

Original Legal Text

10. The modular system of claim 9 , wherein the medium voltage battery supplies voltage between 250 V and 450 V.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a modular energy storage system designed for medium-voltage applications, addressing the need for scalable, high-efficiency energy storage solutions in industrial and grid-scale systems. The system includes a medium-voltage battery configured to supply voltage between 250 V and 450 V, enabling compatibility with medium-voltage power distribution networks. The battery is integrated into a modular architecture, allowing for flexible expansion and customization based on energy storage requirements. The system also incorporates a power conversion module that interfaces between the battery and external loads or power sources, ensuring efficient energy transfer and voltage regulation. Additionally, the system features a control unit that monitors and manages battery performance, optimizing charging and discharging cycles to extend battery life and maintain system stability. The modular design facilitates easy maintenance and replacement of individual components, reducing downtime and operational costs. This invention is particularly useful in applications requiring reliable, high-capacity energy storage, such as renewable energy integration, grid stabilization, and industrial power backup systems.

Claim 11

Original Legal Text

11. A system for supplying DC power to at least one server, comprising: a DC uninterruptible power supply (UPS) including: an AC-DC converter; and an energy storage device electrically coupled in parallel with an output of the AC-DC converter; and a high-frequency DC-DC converter directly connected to the output of the AC-DC converter of the DC UPS, the high-frequency DC-DC converter including a plurality of MOSFETs and a zero-voltage switching controller electrically coupled to the plurality of MOSFETs to output a plurality of DC voltages from the high frequency DC-DC converter.

Plain English Translation

The system provides a DC power supply solution for servers, addressing the inefficiencies and complexity of traditional AC power distribution in data centers. The system includes a DC uninterruptible power supply (UPS) with an AC-DC converter and an energy storage device connected in parallel to the converter's output. This configuration ensures continuous DC power delivery to servers, even during AC power disruptions. A high-frequency DC-DC converter is directly connected to the UPS output, featuring multiple MOSFETs and a zero-voltage switching controller. The converter generates multiple DC voltage outputs tailored to server requirements, improving energy efficiency and reducing power conversion losses. The zero-voltage switching controller minimizes switching losses in the MOSFETs, enhancing overall system efficiency. The parallel connection of the energy storage device allows for seamless power transitions, ensuring uninterrupted operation. This system eliminates the need for multiple AC-DC conversions, reducing energy waste and improving reliability in server power distribution.

Claim 12

Original Legal Text

12. The system of claim 11 , wherein a single power conversion is performed between the energy storage device and the at least one server.

Plain English Translation

The system relates to power management in data centers, specifically addressing inefficiencies in energy distribution to servers. Traditional data centers often use multiple power conversion stages between energy storage devices and servers, leading to energy losses and reduced efficiency. This system optimizes power delivery by performing a single power conversion between the energy storage device and the servers, minimizing conversion losses and improving overall energy efficiency. The energy storage device, such as a battery or capacitor, stores electrical energy and supplies it directly to the servers without intermediate conversions. The system includes a power conversion module that converts the stored energy into a form suitable for the servers, ensuring stable and efficient power delivery. This approach reduces complexity, lowers energy waste, and enhances the reliability of power supply in data centers. The system may also include monitoring and control mechanisms to manage energy distribution dynamically, ensuring optimal performance under varying load conditions. By eliminating redundant conversion steps, the system achieves higher energy efficiency and cost savings in data center operations.

Claim 13

Original Legal Text

13. The system of claim 11 , further comprising an AC UPS configured in an offline energy saver mode such that power is supplied from the AC UPS to a plurality of cooling distribution units (CDUs) if a disturbance occurs in a utility power source that normally supplies power to the plurality of CDUs.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to power management systems for data centers, specifically addressing the need for reliable and energy-efficient power distribution to cooling infrastructure. The system includes an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) configured in an offline energy saver mode, which remains inactive during normal operation when utility power is stable. If a disturbance occurs in the utility power source, the UPS automatically activates to supply power to multiple cooling distribution units (CDUs). The CDUs are responsible for maintaining optimal temperatures within the data center, ensuring continuous operation of critical IT equipment. The offline energy saver mode minimizes energy consumption during normal conditions while providing backup power only when needed, improving overall energy efficiency. The system ensures uninterrupted cooling even during power disturbances, preventing overheating and potential downtime. The UPS is designed to seamlessly transition between utility power and backup power, maintaining stability for the CDUs. This approach reduces energy waste compared to traditional online UPS configurations, which continuously draw power. The invention is particularly useful in data centers where cooling reliability is critical, and energy costs are a significant operational expense.

Claim 14

Original Legal Text

14. A system for supplying DC power to at least one server, comprising: a DC uninterruptible power supply (UPS) including: an AC-DC converter; and an energy storage device electrically coupled to an output of the AC-DC converter; a high-frequency DC-DC converter directly connected to the output of the AC-DC converter of the DC UPS, the high-frequency DC-DC converter including a plurality of MOSFETs and a zero-voltage switching controller electrically coupled to the plurality of MOSFETs to output a plurality of DC voltages from the high frequency DC-DC converter; and an AC UPS configured in an offline energy saver mode such that power is supplied from the AC UPS to a plurality of cooling distribution units (CDUs) if a disturbance occurs in a utility power source that normally supplies power to the plurality of CDUs.

Plain English Translation

A system provides DC power to servers while ensuring continuous operation during utility power disturbances. The system includes a DC uninterruptible power supply (UPS) with an AC-DC converter and an energy storage device connected to its output. A high-frequency DC-DC converter is directly linked to the AC-DC converter's output, featuring multiple MOSFETs and a zero-voltage switching controller to generate multiple DC voltage outputs. Additionally, an AC UPS operates in offline energy saver mode, supplying power to cooling distribution units (CDUs) if utility power fails. The DC UPS ensures stable DC power for servers, while the AC UPS maintains cooling infrastructure during outages. The high-frequency DC-DC converter enhances efficiency and reliability by using zero-voltage switching to minimize energy loss. This system integrates DC power delivery with backup cooling support, addressing the need for resilient data center operations.

Claim 15

Original Legal Text

15. The system of claim 14 , wherein the AC UPS includes: an AC-DC converter; a second energy storage device and a bidirectional DC-DC converter electrically coupled in series with a positive terminal of the second energy storage device, the series combination of the second energy storage device and the bidirectional DC-DC converter being coupled in parallel to the AC-DC converter; and a DC-AC inverter electrically coupled in parallel to the series combination of the second energy storage device and the bidirectional DC-DC converter.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system designed to provide reliable backup power during grid outages. The system addresses the need for efficient energy storage and conversion to maintain continuous power delivery to critical loads. The UPS includes an AC-DC converter that converts incoming AC power to DC power for storage and use. A second energy storage device, such as a battery, is connected in series with a bidirectional DC-DC converter. This series combination is then connected in parallel to the AC-DC converter, allowing the energy storage device to charge and discharge efficiently. A DC-AC inverter is also connected in parallel to the series combination, converting stored DC power back to AC power when needed. The bidirectional DC-DC converter enables controlled charging and discharging of the energy storage device, optimizing energy flow between the storage device and the rest of the system. This configuration ensures seamless power transfer during grid failures, improving reliability and efficiency in power backup applications. The system is particularly useful in environments where uninterrupted power is critical, such as data centers, medical facilities, and industrial operations.

Claim 16

Original Legal Text

16. The system of claim 15 , wherein the second energy storage device is a medium voltage battery.

Plain English Translation

A system for energy storage and distribution in electrical grids includes a first energy storage device connected to a low-voltage grid and a second energy storage device connected to a medium-voltage grid. The second energy storage device is a medium-voltage battery, which allows for direct integration into higher-voltage distribution networks without requiring additional conversion equipment. This configuration improves efficiency by reducing energy losses during transmission and enables faster response times for grid stabilization. The system also includes a control unit that manages energy flow between the storage devices and the grid, ensuring optimal charging and discharging cycles based on demand and grid conditions. The medium-voltage battery's design allows it to handle higher power outputs and longer discharge durations, making it suitable for large-scale energy storage applications. The system can be used in renewable energy integration, peak demand management, and backup power supply, enhancing grid reliability and reducing reliance on fossil fuel-based power plants. The medium-voltage battery's direct connection to the medium-voltage grid simplifies installation and reduces infrastructure costs compared to traditional low-voltage storage solutions.

Claim 17

Original Legal Text

17. The system of claim 16 , wherein the medium voltage battery supplies voltage between 250 V and 450 V.

Plain English Translation

A system for managing electrical power distribution in a vehicle or industrial application includes a medium voltage battery configured to supply voltage between 250 V and 450 V. The battery is integrated into a power distribution network that regulates and distributes electrical energy to various loads, such as motors, inverters, or other high-power components. The system may also include a controller that monitors battery voltage, current, and state of charge to ensure stable power delivery. The medium voltage range allows for efficient energy transfer with reduced current levels compared to lower-voltage systems, minimizing resistive losses and improving overall system efficiency. The battery may be rechargeable and designed to handle high-power demands while maintaining voltage stability. The system may further include safety mechanisms to prevent overvoltage or undervoltage conditions, ensuring reliable operation. This configuration is particularly useful in electric vehicles, hybrid systems, or industrial machinery where medium-voltage power distribution is required for optimal performance and energy efficiency.

Claim 18

Original Legal Text

18. The system of claim 14 , wherein a single power conversion is performed between the energy storage device and the at least one server.

Plain English Translation

A system for managing power distribution in a data center or computing environment includes an energy storage device, such as a battery or capacitor, connected to at least one server. The system optimizes power delivery by performing a single power conversion between the energy storage device and the server. This reduces energy losses and improves efficiency compared to systems requiring multiple conversions. The energy storage device stores excess energy generated by renewable sources or during low-demand periods and supplies it to the server when needed, ensuring stable power delivery. The system may also include a power management controller that monitors energy levels, server demand, and grid conditions to dynamically adjust power flow. By minimizing conversion steps, the system enhances overall energy efficiency and reliability in data center operations.

Claim 19

Original Legal Text

19. The system of claim 14 , wherein the high-frequency DC-DC converter supplies a plurality of DC voltages to the at least one server.

Plain English Translation

A system for power distribution in data centers or server environments addresses the inefficiency and complexity of traditional power delivery methods. The system includes a high-frequency DC-DC converter that converts an input DC voltage into multiple regulated DC output voltages. These outputs are supplied to one or more servers, providing flexible and efficient power distribution. The converter operates at high frequencies to minimize size and weight while maintaining high efficiency. The system may also include power management circuitry to monitor and adjust the output voltages dynamically based on server load conditions. By eliminating the need for multiple separate power supplies, the system reduces component count, improves energy efficiency, and simplifies maintenance. The high-frequency operation allows for compact design, making it suitable for space-constrained data center environments. The system ensures stable and reliable power delivery to servers, enhancing overall performance and reducing energy waste.

Claim 20

Original Legal Text

20. The system of claim 14 , wherein the DC UPS is connected to one load line of a plurality of load lines.

Plain English Translation

A system for managing power distribution in a data center or industrial facility includes a direct current (DC) uninterruptible power supply (UPS) connected to one of multiple load lines. The DC UPS provides backup power to critical loads during grid outages or voltage fluctuations, ensuring continuous operation. The system monitors power quality and load conditions across the load lines, automatically switching to the DC UPS when necessary. The DC UPS is designed to handle high-power loads efficiently, with features such as fast response times and scalable energy storage. The system may also include energy storage devices like batteries or supercapacitors to enhance reliability. The DC UPS connection to a single load line allows for selective backup, prioritizing critical equipment while reducing costs compared to full-system redundancy. The system may further integrate with renewable energy sources, optimizing power usage and reducing reliance on the grid. This approach improves energy efficiency and operational resilience in environments where uninterrupted power is essential.

Patent Metadata

Filing Date

Unknown

Publication Date

June 23, 2020

Inventors

Subrata K. Mondal

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ENERGY EFFICIENT ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MODULAR DATA CENTERS AND MODULAR DATA PODS